The following is a statement from Sachem Superintendent James Nolan regarding the growing rumors in the school district concerning this year’s budget process:
“We have been hearing many rumors lately regarding our budget process for the 2013-2014 school year. Please know that we have certainly started the budget process and discussions, but no decisions or cuts have been made at this time.
There have been rumors about closing and selling schools, raising class sizes, eliminating athletics, music, G.A.T.E. and courses, moving to half-day kindergarten, selling the Waverly Soccer Complex and so many more. Again, please know that no decisions have been made at this time.
I would however strongly encourage you to attend our board meetings and become involved so that you know the facts and the details. Misinformation and rumors will destroy the mutually respectful and interdependent relationship that must exist in order for our present students and future students to be able to benefit from the outstanding Sachem School District we have loved for so many years.
We have a tremendous challenge ahead in developing next year’s budget because once again the state has cut Sachem’s aid when most districts received increases between three and four percent. Please know that we are meeting with Sen. Flanagan, Sen. Zeldin and Assemblyman Graf to express our frustration and advocate for our district. Only together can we work through these challenges and maintain the highly effective schools that we certainly have. We certainly don’t want any of the rumors to become a reality, but please get involved.”
(Official release of Sachem Central School District)